If the Apple Tablet isn’t real…

Prior to this past week, I’ve had several theories about the fabled Apple Tablet computer (in order from least cynical to most cynical):

  • A brilliant new product with a revolutionary keyboard input mechanism
  • An interesting product idea waiting patiently to become technologically feasible
  • A really cool-sounding bad product idea whose keyboard input sucks
  • A long-since failed product idea that just won’t die
  • A series of individual, disorganized hoaxes with a common theme
  • An active disinformation campaign designed by Apple to foil competitors and/or root out leaks

After the past week, just in case the rumors turn out to be yet another mirage, I’m adding one more to the end of the list:

  • A conspiracy by tech blogs to drive traffic and increase ad revenues